Enterprise Center 2205 Enterprise Drive, Suite 501 Westchester IL 60154
Maria E. Gutiérrez is driven by one purpose: to empower Latino youth to lead and strengthen communities through education.
As a first-generation immigrant and a college graduate, Maria recognizes first-generation students' significant challenges. She values the necessity of transparent communication with students and their families, considering it vital for fostering student success and promoting community involvement.
Beyond her advocacy, Maria leads racial healing circles and encourages the exploration of STEM careers to motivate future innovators. Her expertise in adult education and youth development enables her to concentrate on family engagement, equipping Latino families with evidence-based strategies to improve student outcomes.
Gutiérrez has been instrumental in initiatives such as Juntos 4-H, highlighting her commitment to enhancing parent involvement. She has spearheaded various programs throughout Cook County to improve access to vital resources, especially for marginalized communities. Maria embodies Dr. Joyce Epstein's belief that "family engagement begins as a shared responsibility." A statement Gutiérrez lives by.
Through her steadfast dedication to DEIA advocacy, facilitation of racial healing circles, and focus on marginalized communities, Maria E. Gutiérrez stands out as a compassionate leader working towards a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.
Gutiérrez is a certified facilitator for the Real Colors Temperament Style Instrument.
Awards and Recognitions
- University of Illinois Extension, Inclusive Excellence-Team, 2023
- University of Illinois Extension, Team Excellence, 2023
- Collaborating with Potential Partners, 2001
- University of Illinois Extension, Innovative Programming, 2000
- University of Illinois Extension, Collaborative Partnership (FNP & 4-H), 2000,
- YMCA, Volunteer of the Year, 2000
- University of Illinois Extension, Face to Face Teaching, 1999
- Centro Juan Diego Comunitario, Teacher of the Year, 1999
Gutiérrez is affiliated with several professional associations, including the National Society of Leadership and Success, where she received the National Engaged Leader Award in June 2017. Her memberships extend to the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development, Latino Advisory Committee/Prairie View A & M Cooperative Extension Program, Brighton Park Neighborhood Council, the Chicago Public Schools Family & Community Engagement Network, the Illinois Digital Educators Alliance, and the Parent University & Engagement Center.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Sciences from National Louis University and holds two Master's degrees: Educational Leadership and Learning Sciences in Education, emphasizing Technology Instructional Design Coaching.